Power Harvesting Oral Device

ABSTRACT

An oral care device for placement in the oral cavity. The oral care device may include a support component, a piezoelectric component, and/or a therapeutic element. The support component is configured for placement between one or more maxillary teeth and one or more mandibular teeth. The piezoelectric element is configured to generate an electrical current from relative movement of the maxillary teeth and the mandibular teeth. The therapeutic element is configured to release a therapeutic composition into the oral cavity at least in part in response to receiving the electrical signal. The device may include the piezoelectric component, the therapeutic element, or both.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/390,818, filed Dec. 27, 2016, the entirety of which isincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Various products and processes have been developed to improve andmaintain oral health. For example, formulations such as mouthwashes,creams, pastes, salves, and the like, are known for reducing bacteria inthe mouth and/or for treating other oral conditions. Conventionally, theformulations are applied to the teeth, gums and/or other areas of theoral cavity by rinsing, brushing, or otherwise. However, there is a needin the art for improved implements and methods for treating the oralcavity.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for effective oral care devices.This disclosure is directed at overcoming one or more problems set forthabove and/or other problems of the prior art.

BRIEF SUMMARY

This application describes improved oral care devices and methods fortreating the oral cavity. In some embodiments, an oral care deviceherein may be embodied as a device for placement in the oral cavity. Thedevice may include a support component, a piezoelectric component,and/or a therapeutic element. The support component is configured forselective retention in the oral cavity and may include a mouthpiece. Thepiezoelectric element is configured to generate an electrical currentfrom relative movement of anatomy in the oral cavity. For example, thepiezoelectric element may be positioned between the maxillary and themandibular teeth. The therapeutic element is electrically connected tothe piezoelectric component and is configured to release a therapeuticagent into the oral cavity, at least in part in response to receivingthe electrical signal.

In other implementations, an oral device as described in the precedingparagraph(s) may further include a microcontroller for selectivelyapplying power to the therapeutic element.

In other implementations, an oral device as described in the precedingparagraph(s) may further include a power source for at least one ofstoring the electrical current generated by the piezoelectric componentor providing auxiliary power.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the piezoelectric component may be disposed onthe support component to be positioned between at least one maxillarytooth and the at least one mandibular tooth.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the piezoelectric element may include anelectro-active polymer.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the active polymer may be coated on an outersurface of the support component.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the piezoelectric element may include a ceramiccrystal.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the ceramic crystal may be encapsulated in aportion of the support component.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the therapeutic element may include aniontophoresis element.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the iontophoresis element may disposed on thesupport structure such that the iontophoresis element contacts softtissue in the oral cavity when the support structure is placed betweenthe at least one maxillary tooth and the at least one mandibular tooth.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the therapeutic element may include anelectromechanical dispenser comprising a reservoir holding an activesubstance and a mechanism for releasing the active substance from thereservoir into the oral cavity.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the mechanism for releasing the active substancemay include a moveable covering or a microfluidic valve.

In other implementations, an oral device as described in the precedingparagraph(s) may further include a sensor for sensing a condition in theoral cavity, the therapeutic composition being released into the oralcavity at least in part in response to sensing the condition and thesensor sensing at least one of humidity, pH, swallowing frequency,targeted bacteria, saliva markers, or gas phase components.

In other implementations, an oral device as described in the precedingparagraph(s) may further include electronics configured to at least oneof receive data from the sensor or control the therapeutic element torelease the therapeutic composition.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the electronics may include a controller forcontrolling application of an electrical current to the therapeuticelement based on the data from the sensor.

In yet another implementation of this disclosure, an oral device forplacement in the oral cavity may include a support component configuredfor placement between one or more maxillary teeth and one or moremandibular teeth; a therapeutic element disposed on the supportcomponent and configured to release a therapeutic composition into theoral cavity at least in part in response to receiving an electricalcurrent; and a battery disposed on the support component for supplyingthe electrical current.

In other implementations, an oral device as described in the precedingparagraph(s) may further include a piezoelectric component disposed onthe support component and configured to generate an electrical currentfrom relative movement of anatomy in the oral cavity.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the piezoelectric component may include anelectro-active polymer or a ceramic crystal.

In other implementations, in an oral device as described in thepreceding paragraph(s), the therapeutic element may include aniontophoresis element.

In other implementations, an oral device as described in the precedingparagraph(s) may further include a sensor for sensing a condition in theoral cavity, the therapeutic composition being released into the oralcavity at least in part in response to sensing the condition and thesensor sensing at least one of humidity, pH, swallowing frequency,targeted bacteria, saliva markers, or gas phase components.

In other implementations, methods for providing oral benefits areprovided. For instance, methods according to this disclosure may includeconverting mechanical energy, e.g., from a wearer clenching her jaw orgrinding his teeth, to electrical energy, and using the electricalenergy to power a therapeutic element disposed in the oral cavity. Thetherapeutic element may be an iontophoresis patch, for example.

In one aspect, the invention may be an oral care device comprising: asupport component configured for retention in an oral cavity; apiezoelectric component disposed on the support component and configuredto generate an electrical current from mechanical forces created byrelative movement of anatomy in the oral cavity; and a storage systemoperably coupled to the piezoelectric component, the storage systemconfigured to store the electrical current generated by thepiezoelectric component.

In another aspect, the invention may be an oral care device comprising:a support component configured for placement in an oral cavity betweenone or more maxillary teeth and one or more mandibular teeth, thesupport component comprising a base portion having an inner surface anda web portion extending between portions of the inner surface; and atherapeutic element disposed on the web portion of the support componentand configured to release a therapeutic composition into the oral cavityat least in part in response to receiving an electrical current.

In yet another aspect, the invention may be an oral care devicecomprising: a support component configured for retention in an oralcavity, the support component comprising a base portion and first andsecond sidewalls extending from the base portion in a spaced apartmanner, the base portion and the first and second sidewalls defining areceptacle for receiving a wearer's teeth, the first sidewall having anouter surface facing away from the receptacle; and a first therapeuticelement disposed on the outer surface of the first sidewall andconfigured to release a first therapeutic composition into the oralcavity at least in part in response to receiving an electrical current.

Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating embodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes ofillustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of theinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an oral care device according to anexample implementation of this disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an alternative oral care implement,according to an example implementation of this disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an alternative oral care implement,according to another example implementation of this disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view another oral care implement, according anadditional example implementation of this disclosure; and

FIGS. 5A and 5B are a cross-sectional view taken along section line 5A,5B-5A, 5B of FIG. 4.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of the preferred embodiments is merelyexemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure,its application, or uses.

As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each andevery value that is within the range. Any value within the range can beselected as the terminus of the range. In addition, each reference citedherein is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In the eventof a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of acited reference, the present disclosure controls.

This disclosure relates generally to oral care implements, and moreparticularly to oral care implements capable of being partially orcompletely placed within the oral cavity to provide a benefit to thewearer. In some implementations, the oral care device may include asupport structure sized and shaped for retention in the oral cavity. Forexample, the support structure may include a mouthpiece configured as amouthguard, a bite plate, or an occlusal splint.

Oral care devices according to this disclosure may also include apiezoelectric component, e.g., disposed on or otherwise incorporatedinto the support structure. The piezoelectric component may bepositioned such that when a wearer places the mouthpiece in the intendedposition in the oral cavity, the piezoelectric component is positionedbetween at least one maxillary tooth and at least one mandibular tooth.In this manner, pressure is applied to the piezoelectric element whenthe user clenches her jaw, e.g., while sleeping. This applied pressureis converted to electrical energy by the piezoelectric element. Indifferent embodiments, the piezoelectric element may include an activepolymer and/or a crystal, such as a ceramic crystal.

Electrical energy generated by the piezoelectric element may be used topower a therapeutic element. In some embodiments, the electrical energymay be harvested, stored in a storage system, and applied to thetherapeutic element from the storage system. Controls may also beprovided to control application of electrical current from the storagesystem to the therapeutic element. Alternatively, the therapeuticelement may be electrically connected, e.g., via leads or the like, tothe piezoelectric element to directly receive current from thepiezoelectric element.

The therapeutic element may include any number of electromechanicaldevices capable of delivering a therapeutic agent to the oral cavity. Byway of non-limiting example, the therapeutic element may include anactive iontophoresis element, which may be an iontophoresis patch. Theelement may be disposed on the mouthpiece in a manner that positions thetherapeutic element to deliver the therapeutic agent. For example, whenthe element is an iontophoresis element, the element may positioned onthe mouthpiece to contact soft tissue, e.g., an inside of the cheek, thetongue, the pallet, the gums, or the like when the mouthpiece is worn.In other implementations, the therapeutic element may be positioned tocontact one or more teeth, e.g., to apply an anti-cavity agent, such asa fluoride or zinc solution.

In one example implementation, devices according to this disclosure areworn by a user at bedtime. In this manner, when the user grinds orgnashes his teeth while asleep, electrical energy is produced to powerthe therapeutic element. The therapeutic element may combat dry mouth,for example, which can result in halitosis.

Although certain embodiments and benefits will be described, otherimplementations, modifications, and/or benefits will be appreciated bythose having ordinary skill in the art, with the benefit of thisdisclosure. For example, the following detailed description maygenerally refer to embodiments of the inventive implements in thecontext of a mouthpiece, but the disclosure is not limited tomouthpieces; other oral care implements may also incorporate features ofthis disclosure.

FIG. 1 illustrates an oral device 100 according to implementations ofthis disclosure. The oral device 100 comprises a wearable appliancegenerally configured as a mouthpiece 102. The mouthpiece may be shapedgenerally as a bite plate, a mouthguard, an occlusal splint or the like.The shape of the illustrated mouthpiece 102 is known in the art, andgenerally consists of a U-shaped base 104 and a sidewall 106 extendinggenerally from a periphery of the base 104. As will be appreciated, thebase 104 is generally configured for positioning to extend along one ormore teeth between the maxillary and the mandibular teeth. The sidewall106 is generally configured to extend along an outer (i.e., facial)surface of at least one tooth. As also illustrated in FIG. 1, a second,inner sidewall 112 is also provided, spaced from the sidewall 106 forcontacting an inner surface of at least one tooth. In other embodiments,only one of the sidewalls 106, 112 may be provided, and still allow forretention of the mouthpiece 102 in the oral cavity

As illustrated, the base 104 and the sidewall 106 generally define atray or receptacle to receive a wearer's teeth. In some implementations,the dimensions of the mouthpiece may be customized for a user, or themouthpiece may be provided in one more predetermined or generic sizes.In the illustrated mouthpiece 102 the sidewalls 106, 112 extend bothabove and below the base, such that the mouthpiece 102 is generallyconfigured for placement on both the maxillary teeth and the mandibularteeth, although in other embodiments the sidewalls 106, 112 may extendin only one direction from the base 104, rendering the mouthpiecesuitable for placement only on the maxillary or the mandibular teeth. Byway of non-limiting example, and although not illustrated, in someembodiments only the outer sidewall 106 may be provided, and thesidewall depends only upwardly from the base. In such an embodiment, thebase and sidewall may form an L-shaped cross-section, instead of theH-shaped cross-section illustrated. Other modifications will beappreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art.

In other embodiments, the mouthpiece may take other forms and shapes.Regardless of construction, the mouthpiece may serve two purposes.First, the mouthpiece 102 may retain the oral device 100 in the oralcavity. Second, the mouthpiece may serve as a support for a number ofadditional components used in the device 100. For instance, in theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the mouthpiece 102 supports apiezoelectric component 108 and a therapeutic element 110. Thepiezoelectric component 108 and the therapeutic element 110 will bedescribed in more detail below.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the piezoelectric component 108is disposed on the mouthpiece 102, e.g., on the base 104 of themouthpiece 102, such that the piezoelectric component 108 is positionedbetween the maxillary and the mandibular teeth when the mouthpiece ispositioned in a wearer's mouth. In this manner, when the wearer appliesa pressure to the piezoelectric element, e.g., by moving his/her jaw,biting down on the piezoelectric element, grinding her teeth, or thelike, an electrical current is generated at the piezoelectric component108. In other embodiments, the piezoelectric element 108 may be placedbetween soft tissue, e.g., the tongue and the soft pallet, or betweensoft tissue and teeth. Specifically, the piezoelectric element 108 maybe configured for placement between any intraoral surfaces that willmove relative to each other and can apply sufficient force to thepiezoelectric element.

The piezoelectric component 108 may be embodied as any number of devicesthat convert mechanical energy, e.g., resulting from a pressure betweenthe maxillary and the mandibular teeth, to electrical energy. Forexample, the piezoelectric component may comprise an active polymer, andthe active polymer may be disposed on the base 104 of the mouthpiece102. As illustrated schematically in FIG. 1, the active polymer may bedisposed on a top surface of the base 104, i,e., proximate the sidewall106, such that the piezoelectric component contacts the maxillary teethwhen the mouthpiece is positioned in the oral cavity. In alternativeembodiments, an electro-active polymer may additionally or alternativelybe placed on an opposite surface of the base 104, i.e., for contactingone or more mandibular teeth. The electro-active polymer may beencapsulated within the device to prevent direct contact by the user.Active polymers useful as the piezoelectric component may include knownferroelectric polymers such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), or thelike. In some examples, an active polymer piezoelectric component 108may be provided as a film adhered or otherwise affixed to the mouthpiece102. Moreover, a protective covering or film may be disposed over theactive polymer, i.e., such that the active polymer is disposed betweenthe mouthpiece 102 and the protective covering. In this arrangement,saliva and other elements in the oral cavity do not contact thepiezoelectric component 108 directly.

In other embodiments, the piezoelectric component 108 may be a crystalmaterial, such as a ceramic crystal. For example, the piezoelectriccomponent 108 may include either a naturally-occurring crystal, e.g.,quartz, or a synthetic crystal, e.g., lead zirconate titanate (PZT). Inexamples of this disclosure, a synthetic compound may be preferable,e.g., because it may be easier to control safety-related factors of thepiezo material, and the device is intended for use in the mouth. Othercrystalline and/or ceramic materials may also be used, as will beappreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art, with the benefitof this disclosure. Depending on the piezoelectric material used, it maybe undesirable to have the piezoelectric component exposed to the oralcavity, e.g., because the acidity and/or moisture in the cavity maydeteriorate or otherwise harm the component. Accordingly, in someembodiments, the piezoelectric element may be encapsulated, e.g., by aprotective and orally-suitable polymer. In some examples, thepiezoelectric component may be encapsulated by the material forming themouthpiece. For instance, the mouthpiece may be molded, e.g., byinjection molding techniques, around the piezoelectric component 108 toencapsulate the component in the base 104 of the mouthpiece 102.

Although only a single piezoelectric component is illustrated in FIG. 1and described above, multiple piezoelectric elements may be provided.For example, one piezoelectric element may be provided for placementbetween molars on the left side of the mouth and a second piezoelectricelement may be provided for placement between molars on the right sideof the mouth. In other embodiments, more piezoelectric components may beprovided, for example, corresponding to different teeth or groups ofteeth. The number, size and composition of the piezoelectric elementsmay also vary depending upon the amount of electrical energy desired tobe generated. For example, the piezo-electric polymer coefficient (D33)may range between about −15 and about −40 pC/N (Picocoulombs/Newton)

In embodiments of this disclosure, energy generated by the piezoelectricelements may be harvested or stored in a storage system, e.g., employinga battery or capacitor-based energy storage system. From the storagesystem, harvested power may be used to power electronic elements on thedevice 100, including the therapeutic element 110. Electronic controls,e.g., a microcontroller, may also be provided, to selectively applycurrent generated at the piezoelectric component 108 to the therapeuticelement 110. In other embodiments, the storage system may not be used.Instead, the piezoelectric component 108 may be electrically connectedto the therapeutic element 110 via a current control circuit, e.g., topromote release of the therapeutic agent from the therapeutic element110. For example, electrical leads (not shown) may electrically connectthe piezoelectric component 108 to the therapeutic element 110, suchthat when a sufficient current is created at the piezoelectriccomponent, the therapeutic element is activated,

The therapeutic element 110 generally includes an electromechanicaldevice that performs a therapeutic function, e.g., by releasing atherapeutic agent, in response to an electrical input. In a presentlypreferred embodiment, the therapeutic element 110 may be aniontophoresis element, for example, configured as a patch, that releasesa therapeutic composition when current is applied to the element. In theillustrated embodiment, the element 110 is disposed on an externalsurface of the sidewall 106, such that the element 110 contacts an innersurface of the wearer's cheek. In this manner, the element 110 ispositioned to drive a charged therapeutic substance, e.g., a mediationor bioactive, through the soft tissue, using repulsive electromotiveforces.

In other embodiments, the therapeutic element, e.g., the iontophoresiselement, which will generate about 0.5-1 mA, and may be disposed at adifferent location on the mouthpiece 102. For example, the sidewall 106may extend sufficiently from the base 104 that an iontophoresis elementdisposed on an internal surface of the sidewall 106 proximate a distalend of the sidewall 106 contacts the wearer's gum. In other embodiments,the iontophoresis patch could be configured on the mouthpiece 102 forclose contact with other soft tissue. An example of an alternativeplacement is illustrated in FIG. 2, for example, and will be describedin more detail below. Of course, multiple therapeutic elements couldalso be incorporated into the oral device 100. Other embodiments alsoare contemplated and will be discussed along with additionalimplementations described below and/or will be apparent to those havingordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure.

The therapeutic element 110 is not limited to the iontophoresis patchshown in FIG. 1. For example, in other embodiments, the therapeuticelement could include one or more reservoirs containing the therapeuticagent, with the agent being dispensed using a microfluidic pump or valvesystem. The pump/valve system may be configured, e.g., programmed orcontrolled, to control release of the agent. More specifically, anamount of the agent, the timing of agent dispensing, and/or dispensingpatterns may be controlled by the pump/valve system. In otherembodiments, an actuator may be selectively actuated to permit flow ofthe therapeutic agent from a reservoir. For example, the actuator maybreak the reservoir, e.g., by mechanical piercing or squeezing,pneumatic pressure, or electrical surface disruption. Multiple, discretereservoirs may be provided in such examples to allow for disparatedosing. Some such alternate arrangements are described in more detail,below.

According to embodiments of this disclosure, the therapeutic element 110preferably releases a therapeutic agent into the oral cavity or asurface in the oral cavity, e.g., soft tissue such as the pallet,tongue, gums, and/or inner cheeks or on the teeth. The therapeutic agentmay be chosen for its active ingredients useful to treat one or more ofdry mouth, malodorous breath, enamel erosion, bacteria growth, or thelike. Therapeutic agents may also protect the teeth against cavityformation (in which case the therapeutic element may dispense atherapeutic agent onto the teeth instead of the soft tissue) and/orprotect against periodontal disease. In still other applications, thetherapeutic agent may be useful to provide therapy against non-oralmaladies. For instance, the devices according to this disclosure couldprovide any of a number of agents, including pain relievers, nutritionalsupplements, or the like. Moreover, one or more therapeutic agents maybe contained in a single device 100. A benefit of multiple therapeuticagents dispensed while sleeping can result in a positive userexperience, waking with fresh breath and clean feeling hard and softtissue with therapeutic benefit to the hard or soft tissue.

In embodiments of the disclosure all or a portion of the therapeuticelement may be selectively replaced, e.g., to refill or replenish thetherapeutic agent. By way of non-limiting example, an iontophoresispatch may be replaced with a new patch after a certain number of uses orafter an elapsed time, for example. Upon its securing, a replacementpatch may also be electrically connected to the piezoelectric element.In still other examples, when the therapeutic agent is included as areservoir, the reservoir may be selectively replaced with refills and/orwith reservoirs containing additional or different agents. In oneexample, a reservoir containing a therapeutic agent may comprise aninsert retained in the mouthpiece, which insert is removed and replaced.

FIG. 2 illustrates another example oral care device 200 according tothis disclosure. The device 200 is similar to the device 100 in that itis generally shaped like a conventional mouthguard. More specifically,the device 200 generally includes a support structure shaped as amouthpiece 202 including a base 204 for positioning between the upperand lower teeth and a sidewall 206 extending from the base forpositioning along the sides of the teeth. Reference numeral 206specifically designates an outer sidewall, i.e., for positioning next toan outer (facial) surface of the teeth, and an inner sidewall 208, i.e.,for positioning next to an inner (lingual) surface of the teeth, is alsoillustrated. In other embodiments, only one of the inner sidewall or theouter sidewall may be needed. In still other embodiments, the sidewalkmay not be necessary, as other configurations, designs, and mechanismsmay be suitable for retaining the mouthpiece 202 in the oral cavity ofthe user. As also illustrated in FIG. 2, the mouthpiece 202 alsoincludes a web or plate 210 extending between the sidewalls proximatethe front of the device 200. The plate 210 is configured for placementproximate the wearer's soft pallet, as in some conventional orthodonticretainers.

The device 200 also includes two piezoelectric elements 212. Thepiezoelectric elements 212 may be polymer-type piezoelectric elementsthat are disposed proximate distal ends of the base 204, e.g., forplacement between the molars when the device 200 is worn. Thepiezoelectric elements 210 may be encapsulated by a polymer such thatthey are not directly exposed to the oral cavity. For example, thepiezoelectric elements 210 may be encapsulated in the base 204 of themouthpiece 202.

Two therapeutic elements 214 a, 214 b also are illustrated. Thetherapeutic element 214 a is disposed on the sidewall 206 and is adaptedto be placed in close proximity to the inner cheek of the wearer. Thetherapeutic element 214 b is placed on the plate 208, for contacting thesoft pallet of the wearer. Both of the therapeutic elements 214 a, 214 bmay be iontophoresis patches, or some other type of element, such asthose described above.

As also illustrated in FIG. 2, the device 200 may also include a powersource 216. The power source 216 may be a battery provided to power oneor more of the components of the device. For example, the power maysupplement the electrical power generated by the piezoelectriccomponents 212. This power supplementing may be necessary whenadditional therapeutic elements 214 or other electronic components areprovided, or in the event that the piezoelectric element malfunctions.Moreover, the power source 216 may be electrically connected to thepiezoelectric element(s) to store electrical energy generated at thepiezoelectric element, e.g., by incorporating a capacitor. In stillother embodiments, the power source may obviate the need for thepiezoelectric elements altogether.

One or more sensors 218 also are included on the device 200. The sensors218 may be any number of intraoral sensors for sensing one or moreconditions of the oral cavity. For example, the sensors 218 may senseone or more of a humidity in the oral cavity, a pH level of the oralcavity, a swallowing frequency, targeted bacteria within the oralcavity, saliva markers, gas phase markers, or the like. Data from thesensors may be collected for subsequent review and diagnosis, forexample, in an on-board memory. In still other embodiments, informationabout the sensed data may be transmitted to an external device, e.g., asmart phone or other computing device. In some preferred examples,administration of the therapeutic agent from either or both of thetherapeutic elements 214 a, 214 b may be based at least in part on thesensed data. For instance, when the sensors indicate that conditions inthe mouth, e.g., pH or humidity, are conducive to bacterial growth, oneor both of the therapeutic elements 214 a, 214 b may be controlled toselectively administer an antibacterial agent. An on-boardmicrocontroller (not shown) may be provided to process the sensor dataand activate the therapeutic element to dispense the therapeutic agent,or some or all of the functionality may be done by a remote device, suchas a smartphone or an external computing device. In still otherembodiments, a microcontroller or an external device may be used tocontrol administration of the therapeutic agent. For example, a user mayprogram a dispensing pattern into an application accessible via acomputing device prior to going to sleep at night.

As noted above, in embodiment of this disclosure, different therapeuticsmay be administered to the oral cavity via a therapeutic element, e.g.,therapeutic elements 110, 214 a, 214 b. In the foregoing examples, thetherapeutic elements may be configured as iontophoresis patches,although alternative therapeutic elements may be used instead. Inalternative embodiments, the therapeutic element may be a low-levelelectrical pulse applied to some portion of the oral cavity. Forexample, it may be possible to stimulate saliva production usinglow-energy electrical pulses, and the therapeutic element may beconfigured to provide such a benefit in some examples. Moreover, FIGS.3, 4, 5A and 5B illustrate alternative embodiments in which differenttherapeutic elements are used to release a therapeutic agent into theoral cavity.

FIG. 3 illustrates another mouthguard-type oral device 300, having agenerally U-shaped base 302 with an outer sidewall 304 and an innersidewall 306 extending therefrom to form a channel for receiving one orboth of maxillary and mandibular teeth. Also, a web 308 or other supportextends between portions of the inner sidewall 306. A therapeuticelement 310 is disposed on the web 308. Specifically, the therapeuticelement includes a reservoir 312 containing a therapeutic agent, e.g., aliquid, gel or powder. Release of the therapeutic agent may becontrolled by a valve 314 in fluid communication with the reservoir 312.In the illustrated embodiment, the valve 314 is spaced from thereservoir 312 by a conduit 316, e.g., a tube, although the valve 314 maybe directly connected to the reservoir.

In operation, the reservoir may be pressurized, e.g., by a pump such asa microfluidic pump, an elastic membrane, a piston, or the like, and thevalve is selectively opened to dispense the agent from the reservoir. Insome embodiments, the valve may be a microvalve controllable bycontrols, not shown. In some embodiments, the controls may be disposedon or integrated into the device 300. Moreover, sensors may be providedon the device 300, with the valve being configured to dispense thetherapeutic agent according in response to a sensed condition, as inembodiments described above. Although the therapeutic element 310 isillustrated as being disposed on the web 308, some or all portions maybe otherwise disposed, e.g., on the sidewalls 304, 306 and/or on thebase 302. In some instances, the web 308 may not be necessary. As withprevious embodiments, components of the therapeutic element 310 may bepowered by an on-board power source, which may include a piezoelectricelement that converts mechanical energy to electrical power.

FIG. 4 illustrates another device 400 that has a similar structure tothose described above. More specifically, the device 400 includes aU-shaped base 402, an outer sidewall 404 and an inner sidewall 406. Thebase 402, the outer sidewall 404 and/or the inner sidewall 406 promoteretention of the device 400 in the oral cavity. A therapeutic element408 also is provided in this embodiment. The therapeutic elementgenerally includes a reservoir 410 and one or more holes 412 through thereservoir 410. Each of the holes 412 provides fluid communicationbetween an interior of the reservoir 410 and an exterior of thereservoir 410 (i.e., the oral cavity when the device is placed in themouth).

As detailed in FIG. 5A, the reservoir 410 retains a therapeutic agent414, and each of the holes 412 is closed with a covering 416. As in FIG.5B, the coverings 416 may be selectively removed from the holes 412,allowing the therapeutic agent 414 to flow out of the reservoir 410 andinto the oral cavity, via the opening. The coverings may be actuatablebetween an open position and a closed position, they may be punctured,e.g., by a needle or other actuator, or they may be rupturable orfrangible. In some embodiments, a conductive trace may be provided inthe covering and under an applied electrical current, the trace may heatup and melt or otherwise rupture the covering 416. The reservoir 410 mayinclude a plurality of discrete compartments, e.g., such that thecompartments have a one-to-one correspondence with the holes 412, anddifferent compartments may contain different therapeutic agents.Alternatively, multiple holes may provide access to a single reservoir,e.g., to promote release of the same agent at multiple locations.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the therapeutic agent may also includecontrols 418, e.g., a microcontroller, and a power source 420. As withother embodiments, sensors may also be included on the device 400, asmay a piezoelectric element. Although the components of the device 400are illustrated as being disposed on the base 402, some or allcomponents may be disposed elsewhere on the device 400. For example, itmay be desirable to place the reservoir 410 such that the holes opendownward (as in FIGS. 5A and 5B) so gravity may assist in evacuating thetherapeutic agent 414 through the holes 412. The reservoir may also belarger, i.e., to cover more area and/or to hold more therapeutic agent.Other modifications will also be contemplated by those having skill inthe art, with the benefit of this disclosure.

As will be appreciated, according to the foregoing embodiments, an oraldevice is illustrated and described that can be used to administer atherapeutic agent inside the oral cavity. The therapeutic element ispreferably an electromechanical device that is powered by electricalcurrent generated by a piezoelectric element. In one example use case,the device may be worn at night, while the wearer sleeps. Many peopleclench, grind or otherwise move their jaws and teeth during sleep, anddevices according to this disclosure harvest that mechanical energy aselectrical energy used to power an on-board therapeutic element. In someembodiments, a separate power source is not required, so batteries donot lose their charge or otherwise need replacing or re-charging.Instead, the device 100, 200 is self-contained and easily used.

The present disclosure describes oral care devices that are effectiveand relatively simple to use. The devices described herein may provide atherapeutic effect within the oral cavity without the need for externalpowering or user interaction. Moreover, devices described herein mayallow a user to administer therapeutic agents

Although example embodiments have been described in language specific tothe structural features and/or methodological acts, the claims are notnecessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather,the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms ofimplementing the example embodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. An oral care device comprising: a supportcomponent configured for retention in an oral cavity; a piezoelectriccomponent disposed on the support component and configured to generatean electrical current from mechanical forces created by relativemovement of anatomy in the oral cavity; and a storage system operablycoupled to the piezoelectric component, the storage system configured tostore the electrical current generated by the piezoelectric component.2. The oral care device of claim 1 wherein the storage system comprisesa power source.
 3. The oral care device of claim 1 wherein thepiezoelectric component is disposed on the support component to bepositioned between at least one maxillary tooth and at least onemandibular tooth.
 4. The oral care device of claim 1 wherein thepiezoelectric element comprises an electro-active polymer that is coatedon an outer surface of the support component.
 5. The oral care device ofclaim 1 wherein the piezoelectric element is encapsulated in a portionof the support component.
 6. The oral care device of claim 1 furthercomprising a sensor disposed on the support component, the sensorconfigured to sense a condition in the oral cavity.
 7. The oral caredevice of claim 6 further comprising a controller operably coupled tothe sensor and configured to receive data from the sensor,
 8. The oralcare device of claim 1 wherein the support component comprises a baseportion and at least one sidewall extending from the base, and whereinthe piezoelectric element is located on the base portion.
 9. An oralcare device comprising: a support component configured for placement inan oral cavity between one or more maxillary teeth and one or moremandibular teeth, the support component comprising a base portion havingan inner surface and a web portion extending between portions of theinner surface; and a therapeutic element disposed on the web portion ofthe support component and configured to release a therapeuticcomposition into the oral cavity at least in part in response toreceiving an electrical current.
 10. The oral care device of claim 9further comprising a power source disposed on the support component forsupplying the electrical current to the therapeutic element.
 11. Theoral care device of claim 9 further comprising a piezoelectric elementon the base portion of the support component, the piezoelectric elementconfigured to generate the electrical current from mechanical forcescreated by relative movement of anatomy in the oral cavity.
 12. The oralcare device of claim 9 wherein the base portion of the support componentis generally U-shaped and comprises a first leg, a second leg, and abight portion between the first and second legs, and wherein the webextends between the first and second legs.
 13. The oral care device ofclaim 9 wherein the base portion is generally U-shaped so that the innersurface defines a gap, and wherein the web portion is located within thegap.
 14. An oral care device comprising: a support component configuredfor retention in an oral cavity, the support component comprising a baseportion and first and second sidewalls extending from the base portionin a spaced apart manner, the base portion and the first and secondsidewalls defining a receptacle for receiving a wearer's teeth, thefirst sidewall having an outer surface facing away from the receptacle;and a first therapeutic element disposed on the outer surface of thefirst sidewall and configured to release a first therapeutic compositioninto the oral cavity at least in part in response to receiving anelectrical current.
 15. The oral care device of claim 14 furthercomprising a power source disposed on the support component forsupplying the electrical current to the first therapeutic element. 16.The oral care device of claim 14 further comprising a piezoelectricelement on the base portion of the support component, the piezoelectricelement configured to generate the electrical current from mechanicalforces created by relative movement of anatomy in the oral cavity. 17.The oral care device of claim 14 wherein the first sidewall is an outersidewall configured to be located along facial surfaces of a wearer'steeth and the second sidewall is an inner sidewall configured to belocated adjacent palatal or lingual surfaces of a wearer's teeth. 18.The oral care device of claim 14 further comprising a second therapeuticelement disposed on the base portion of the support component andconfigured to release a second therapeutic composition into the oralcavity at least in part in response to receiving an electrical current.19. The oral care device of claim 14 further comprising a sensor on thesupport component for sensing a condition in the oral cavity and acontroller operably coupled to the sensor for receiving data relevant tothe condition from the sensor, the controller operably coupled to thefirst therapeutic element to initiate release of the first therapeuticcomposition into the oral cavity at least in part in response to thesensor sensing the condition.
 20. The oral care device of claim 19wherein the condition is at least one of humidity, pH, swallowingfrequency, targeted bacteria, saliva markers, or gas phase components.